EDUCATION

SAHANA MEDURA

The Garden of Tranquility

Set across four serene acres at No. 7/6, St. Anthony’s Road in Kanuwana, Ja-Ela, Sahana Medura (The Garden of Tranquility) is a sanctuary of comfort and healing for individuals experiencing mental trauma and psychological distress.

The entire property and its facilities are owned and administered by the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate (OMI) of the Colombo Province. It is officially registered with the Department of Social Services as a Voluntary Social Services Organization (under Ordinance No. 31 of 1980, registered on May 9, 2000).

Our Mission

Through spiritual and corporal works of mercy and compassion, Sahana Medura serves those suffering from mental depression, bodily infirmities, and spiritual wounds. Through dedicated counseling and residential treatment programs, our aim is to restore our residents to a fuller health of mind and body, empowering them to return to society and lead fulfilling lives.

History and Background

Sahana Medura was founded in 1991 by the late Rev. Fr. Fraccid Anthony Fernando. It originally began as a place of solace for those who had become victims of trauma due to the impact of war, political upheavals, and youth insurrections. Fr. Fraccid served as the founding director and coordinator, working alongside a small team of dedicated lay collaborators to provide therapeutic healing.

As the institution grew, the need for broader administrative support became clear. In 2017, the administration, property, and activities of Sahana Medura were officially transferred to the Oblates of the Colombo Province. Following Fr. Fraccid's passing, Rev. Fr. Prasanna Rodrigo, OMI, was appointed as his official successor on November 8, 2018, and currently serves as the Director.

Facilities and Healing Environment

The institute is designed to promote holistic well-being. It features a large three-story complex equipped with a parlor, private rooms, common dormitories, and comprehensive kitchen and dining facilities.

A spacious, green front yard provides a healthy, natural environment for outdoor relaxation. Furthermore, the center houses specially designated rooms to conduct private counseling sessions for both our residential patients and outpatient clients who visit from the surrounding community.

Moving Forward: A Call for Compassion

Today, Sahana Medura provides full-time care for approximately 40 male and female residents. Tragically, many of these individuals have been neglected or marginalized by their own families and communities. The Oblates firmly believe that as God’s children, we all share a responsibility to care for the vulnerable.

Looking to the future, the Colombo Province envisions elevating Sahana Medura into a fully equipped mental health hospital, utilizing advancements in science and therapy to help these special individuals reclaim their happiness and independence.

Achieving this dream requires the collective effort of the community. Rev. Fr. Prasanna Rodrigo warmly welcomes anyone willing to join hands in this mission. Whether through financial assistance, the donation of dry rations and alms, or simply taking the time to visit and make the residents feel loved and accepted, your generosity brings authentic Christian charity to life.

Directives Regarding the Admission of Patients

To ensure the highest standard of care and coordination, Sahana Medura follows strict admission guidelines:

  • Medical Documentation: The individual seeking admission must currently be under medical treatment, and detailed reports from their doctors must be submitted.
  • Responsible Guardian: The patient must have a designated guardian who takes full responsibility for them. This guardian is required to visit the patient at least once a month to ensure the continuity and coordination of the therapy process.
  • Financial Contribution: The party responsible for the patient is expected to make a financial contribution toward their care (the amount is always negotiable based on capacity).
  • Board Approval: The Director will prepare a comprehensive report on the proposed therapy process for the patient. This report is submitted to the Board of Directors, who hold the final decision regarding all admissions.

Contact - SAHANA MEDURA